According to Ian Kennedy, PWHL Seattle has added the first defender signing Cayla Barnes from the Montreal Victoire.
Barnes was a rookie this season leading the Montreal Victoire in time on ice averaging 21:48 per game. She also added 13 points, tops among all rookie defenders this season, and tying for fifth among defenders league wide.
“Adding Cayla is a big step for our team,” said PWHL Seattle General Manager Meghan Turner. “She’s a dynamic defender who moves the puck well and consistently contributes offensively. Even as a rookie last season, she played with the poise and presence of a veteran, and we see her playing a key role on our blue line.”
Barnes added a year to her deal with Seattle signing a three-year deal to become the second player alongside Sophie Jaques to sign through the 2027-28 season.
Seattle opened their exclusive signing window additions adding forwards Hilary Knight and Danielle Serdachny.
Barnes is also a long time member of USA's national team having won Olympic and World Championship gold medals with Team USA. Barnes was a World Championship All-Star in 2019. She was twice named Best Defender at the U-18 World Championships.
At the NCAA level, Barnes played for Boston College before transferring to Ohio State for her fifth season where she helped the Buckeyes win the 2024 NCAA National Championship.
“I am thrilled and thankful for this opportunity to join PWHL Seattle in its inaugural season,” said Barnes. “The passion for women’s hockey has proven that Seattle is truly a hockey town, and I can’t wait to get started. I want to thank the Montréal Victoire for the opportunity to play for such a historic city and for drafting me into this league. Playing for the Victoire will always be a memorable chapter in my career that I hold close to my heart. I am looking forward to returning to the West Coast and to get to know the fans, the city, and the hockey community in Seattle!”